Indonesia missed out on the World Cup, and the Dutch coach unexpectedly comments on his future

Coach Patrick Kluivert acknowledged that he currently does not have a specific plan for what lies ahead following Indonesia's official exit from the 2026 World Cup Asian qualifying rounds.

The Indonesian national team recently concluded their journey in the fourth round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers with a 0-1 defeat against Iraq at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium (Jeddah) in the early hours of October 12 (Vietnam time). Previously, they also lost 2-3 to Saudi Arabia, which caused Kluivert’s squad to finish last in Group B and officially end their World Cup dream.

According to the Bolareport, at the post-match press conference, Kluivert briefly but disappointingly stated: “At this moment, I have no plans. We need time to reflect and reassess everything we have done.”

The former Dutch star only took charge of the Indonesian team starting January 2025, replacing coach Shin Tae-yong after the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) decided to terminate the South Korean coach’s contract. Under the agreement, Kluivert signed a contract lasting until 2026 with an option to extend for two more years, but his future remains uncertain.

Despite the disappointment, Kluivert praised and expressed pride in his players: “I can’t analyze right now, honestly, I don’t know what will happen next. But the people of Indonesia should be very proud of the players who gave their all to realize the nation’s dream.”

“This is not just my dream or the players’ dream but that of millions. It’s hard to accept this result because I witnessed firsthand the dedication and fighting spirit everyone showed.”

Since taking office, Patrick Kluivert has led the Indonesian team in 8 matches, achieving 3 wins, 1 draw, and 4 losses. Although the results have not met expectations, many fans recognize the effort to refresh the playing style and the fighting spirit the 48-year-old coach brought to the team.

Kluivert concluded with an emotional message: “People may have their own opinions, but I believe they understand how hard we fought.”

Kluivert’s future with the Indonesian team remains undecided, but his words reflect a strong sense of responsibility and deep affection for the Garuda squad, despite the World Cup 2026 journey ending in disappointment.

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